Dorm Decor: Books, beds and the basics

For shared spaces roughly the size of Mariah Carey's shoe closet, it's ironic that college students spend massive amounts of money on decor and gadgets for their dorm rooms.

Sara Winter

For shared spaces roughly the size of Mariah Carey's shoe closet, it's ironic that college students spend massive amounts of money on decor and gadgets for their dorm rooms.

And retailers like BJ's Wholesale Club, Target and T.J. Maxx devote sizeable product budgets, advertising space and Web site links to the art of equipping the dorm room.

This year, the list of products has expanded to encompass not-so-traditional items.

This year, BJ's is selling a Tabletop Portable Dishwasher which "can accommodate up to four place settings for maximum efficiency and minimal water waste" for $149.99. And Target sells a Wall Mount Fishbowl which "saves counter space and adds a decorative element to your wall" for $19.99.

But when Anne Foskett of Holliston is dorm shopping for her college sophomore daughter, "It's definitely just about getting the basics," she said.

Janet Hennrikus of Holliston has two daughters in college. Jaqueline, a senior at Boston University, has moved off campus and Brittany, a sophomore at the University of Delaware, will again be residing in the dorms this year.

Hennrikus thinks some of this stuff is "ridiculous" and "impractical" but that judgment "depends on what your kids' living situation is, if they're staying in the dorms or moving off campus," she said.

"In the dorms you have no room for a TV, let alone a portable dishwasher. But for Jaqueline, who is living in an apartment, that could be very useful."

Hennrikus, who is quickly becoming a veteran at dorm decorating also said, "I think it's great, though, that companies are paying more attention to the small space issue." But she warns rookie parents that "you have to re-buy the basics every single summer because things get moldy and old and overused."

T.J. Maxx has a list of dorm decorating tips for those about to enter the realm of dorm life. One of the tips instructs students to "think about storage options when decorating - look for unique baskets or boxes in wicker, plastic or leather. Dorm rooms are typically small and students require a great deal of storage solutions to make the room functional."

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, this fall America can expect to see 17.6 million students head to college. The Census also makes a point of highlighting the magnitude of back-to-school shopping. In August 2005, more than $8 billion was spent between family clothing stores and bookstores - not including the dorm supplies.

With increasing expenses of education itself, it is no wonder that companies are trying to tap into parents' already bleeding pockets.

When shopping for your university-bound scholar this fall, take a look at some of the new stuff but, as Hennrikus said, "you can't forget to focus on the basics."

Where to buy your 'essentials'

Some of this season's unusual buys can all be found in stores' college or home sections. While a few of these products may be superfluous, one might be just what you're looking for.

The Book Safe, $19.99 - A hardcover book that opens up to reveal a secret storage place. Available at The Container Store.

USB Keyboard Vacuum, $4.99 - Plugs right into USB port; with two different attachments. Available at The Container Store.

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